The Old Vic Theatre: London's Historic Shakespearean Landmark
Historic London theatre famed for pioneering Shakespearean productions and nurturing British performing arts since 1818.
The Old Vic Theatre, located at 103 The Cut in London, is a historic venue renowned for its pivotal role in British theatre, especially Shakespearean drama. Established in 1818 as the Royal Coburg Theatre, it evolved through various identities before becoming the permanent home of Shakespeare productions under Lilian Baylis in the early 20th century. Today, it remains a vibrant cultural hub, blending rich history with contemporary performances in a Grade II* listed building.
A brief summary to The Old Vic
- 103 The Cut, London, SE1 8NB, GB
- +443448717628
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for popular productions to secure the best seats and avoid disappointment.
- Explore the theatre’s rich history through occasional backstage tours and exhibitions.
- Check the schedule for special events celebrating Shakespeare and British theatre heritage.
- Visit nearby South Bank attractions to complement your theatre experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the London Underground to Waterloo Station, approximately 10-15 minutes walk from The Old Vic. Waterloo is served by the Jubilee, Northern, Bakerloo, and Waterloo & City lines. Expect frequent service with fares starting from £2.50 using contactless or Oyster card.
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Bus
Multiple London bus routes stop near The Old Vic, including routes 45, 63, 100, and 344. Bus travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes depending on starting point and traffic. Single fares cost £1.75 with Oyster or contactless payment.
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Taxi or Ride-share
Licensed London taxis and ride-share services provide direct access to The Old Vic, with journey times from central London ranging from 10 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from £8 to £20.
The Old Vic location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Old Vic
Origins and Early Transformations
The Old Vic Theatre opened its doors in 1818 as the Royal Coburg Theatre, named after its patron, Prince Leopold of Saxe-Coburg. Initially, it featured a diverse program including melodramas, ballets, and spectacles, reflecting popular entertainment of the era. In 1833, the theatre was renamed the Royal Victoria Theatre under the patronage of Victoria, Duchess of Kent, mother to the future Queen Victoria. This era saw the venue solidify its reputation amidst London's vibrant theatrical scene, despite occasional financial struggles and tragic incidents such as the 1858 fire.The Temperance Era and Cultural Reform
In 1880, social reformer Emma Cons transformed the theatre into the Royal Victoria Hall and Coffee Tavern, operating it on strict temperance principles. This shift marked a departure from traditional theatre productions to a focus on musical concerts, lectures, and moral entertainment aimed at the working classes. The venue became a hub for education and culture, hosting penny lectures and ballad recitals, and fostering the foundation of Morley College. Emma Cons's legacy laid the groundwork for the theatre’s later artistic renaissance.Lilian Baylis and the Shakespearean Revival
Lilian Baylis, niece of Emma Cons, took over management in 1912 and reintroduced theatre productions with a strong emphasis on Shakespeare. Between 1914 and 1923, she ambitiously staged the entire First Folio of Shakespeare’s plays, a pioneering achievement that established The Old Vic as London’s premier Shakespearean venue. Baylis also championed English opera and ballet, nurturing companies that would evolve into the Royal Ballet and English National Opera, thereby cementing the theatre’s role in the broader performing arts landscape.War, Reconstruction, and National Theatre Legacy
The Old Vic suffered significant damage during World War II bombings, forcing the company to tour extensively. After reopening in 1950, it became the temporary home of the National Theatre Company from 1963 until 1976, under the artistic leadership of luminaries such as Laurence Olivier. This period was marked by innovative productions and the theatre’s emergence as a national cultural institution. Subsequent refurbishments in the 1980s and beyond have preserved its historic character while modernizing facilities.Contemporary Role and Cultural Impact
Today, The Old Vic continues to be a cornerstone of London’s theatrical life, offering a diverse program of drama, including contemporary works alongside classical repertoire. It operates as an independent charity with a mission to make theatre accessible to a broad audience. The building’s Grade II* listed status reflects its architectural and historical significance, while its location in the vibrant South Bank area situates it at the heart of London’s cultural district.Architectural and Social Significance
The theatre’s architecture, rebuilt in 1871 in the style of a grand music hall, retains elements from its early 19th-century origins. Its intimate auditorium and stage have hosted some of the most influential figures in British theatre history. Beyond its physical structure, The Old Vic symbolizes a legacy of social reform, artistic innovation, and cultural education that continues to inspire performers and audiences alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
County Hall
0.7 km
Historic Edwardian Baroque landmark on London’s South Bank with iconic river views, cultural venues, and rich civic heritage.
South Bank Community Area
0.7 km
A vibrant riverside cultural and historic district in central London, home to iconic landmarks, arts venues, and scenic Thames views.
South Bank Lion
0.7 km
Majestic 1837 Coade stone lion guarding Westminster Bridge, symbolizing London’s resilience and rich heritage.
Westminster Bridge
0.9 km
Historic Gothic bridge over the Thames offering stunning views of Big Ben, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament.
Waterloo Bridge
0.9 km
Waterloo Bridge, London’s elegant Thames crossing, famed for its wartime women builders and breathtaking panoramic city views.
Blackfriars Bridge
0.9 km
Historic and widest Thames crossing in London, blending Victorian engineering with medieval heritage and stunning river views.
City Cruises London Westminster Pier
1.0 km
London's premier riverside gateway to Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster's iconic landmarks.
The Battle of Britain Monument
1.0 km
Explore the Battle of Britain Monument in London, a powerful tribute to the heroism of RAF pilots during World War II, rich in history and artistic elegance.
King's Reach commemoration memorial
1.0 km
Historic riverside memorial honoring King George V’s Silver Jubilee and the naming of London’s Thames stretch as 'King’s Reach'.
Boadicea and Her Daughters
1.0 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Boudica, the fierce Celtic queen, standing proudly on her chariot beside Westminster Bridge in the heart of London.
Lambeth Palace
1.0 km
Eight centuries of ecclesiastical power where the Church and Crown converge on the Thames
Monument Queen Victoria
1.0 km
Historic Victorian memorial marking the last royal gateway to the City of London, crowned by a striking dragon and rich in royal symbolism.
Chindit Memorial
1.0 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the daring Chindit special forces and their leader Major General Orde Wingate’s legacy.
Whitehall Gardens
1.0 km
A serene, historic garden on the Thames embankment offering vibrant blooms, peaceful walks, and iconic London views.
Cleopatra's Needle
1.0 km
An ancient Egyptian obelisk on London's Thames Embankment, bridging millennia of history and mystery in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
South Bank
0.2 km
Discover South Bank, London’s vibrant riverside district where iconic landmarks, world-class arts, and scenic Thames views converge in a cultural celebration.
Roupell St
0.3 km
Step back into 19th-century London on Roupell Street, a beautifully preserved Georgian workers' terrace and beloved film location near Waterloo.
Leake St
0.4 km
Dive into London’s vibrant Banksy Tunnel, where ever-changing legal graffiti transforms a forgotten underpass into a dynamic urban art sanctuary.
Westminster Bridge Rd
0.4 km
Historic Westminster Bridge Road links London’s iconic landmarks with vibrant South Bank culture and excellent transport connections.
The Graffiti Tunnel
0.4 km
London’s largest legal graffiti gallery beneath Waterloo Station, where street art thrives in a constantly evolving urban canvas.
BFI IMAX
0.4 km
Experience Britain’s largest cinema screen and immersive film events at the iconic BFI IMAX on London’s vibrant South Bank.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
0.5 km
Modern luxury and iconic views converge at Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge, your gateway to the heart of London’s South Bank.
South of the River
0.6 km
A prestigious, fully fitted office building with prime views opposite the Houses of Parliament in London’s thriving South Bank business district.
Florence Nightingale Museum
0.6 km
Explore the inspiring legacy of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, at this engaging museum in the heart of London’s South Bank.
Southbank Centre Food Market
0.6 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering global flavors behind the Royal Festival Hall.
Jubilee Gardens
0.6 km
A peaceful, family-friendly green sanctuary on London’s South Bank with stunning views and a vibrant community spirit.
30 The Queen's Walk
0.7 km
South Bank's riverside food and entertainment hub beneath Hungerford Bridge, where street food, craft beer, and live music meet the Thames.
Royal Festival Hall
0.7 km
A historic riverside concert hall and cultural beacon on London’s South Bank, blending iconic architecture with world-class performances.
The London Dungeon
0.7 km
Step into London’s darkest history with live actors, thrilling rides, and immersive storytelling in the heart of the South Bank.
Southbank Centre
0.7 km
A vibrant riverside cultural complex in London offering world-class music, art, and festive experiences year-round.
Essential places to dine
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
0.6 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
The Archduke
0.6 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Troia Southbank
0.6 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine with halal options in a vibrant riverside setting near the London Eye.
Ping Pong Southbank
0.6 km
Lively Southbank dim sum and cocktail bar blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern Asian fusion in a bustling riverside setting.
OKAN South Bank
0.6 km
Experience authentic Osaka-style okonomiyaki and Japanese street food in a cozy, lively South Bank eatery with friendly service and a nostalgic vibe.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
0.7 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Strada Southbank
0.7 km
Authentic Southern Italian flavors served with vibrant riverside views in the heart of London’s Southbank.
wagamama southbank
0.7 km
Lively riverside pan-Asian dining with fresh, bold flavors and stunning Thames views at London’s Royal Festival Hall.
Sea Containers Restaurant
0.7 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Wahaca Southbank
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
Bustronome London
1.1 km
Dine in luxury aboard a panoramic double-decker bus while touring London’s iconic landmarks with gourmet cuisine and fine wines.
The Northall
1.1 km
Refined British dining with seasonal flair in a grand, elegant setting at Corinthia London’s distinguished restaurant.
The Garden
1.1 km
A Mediterranean-inspired garden oasis offering refined seafood and elegant dining in the heart of London’s Corinthia Hotel.
Ikoyi Restaurant
1.2 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Ekstedt at The Yard
1.3 km
Experience Nordic wood-fired cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Niklas Ekstedt in the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, blending ancient fire cooking with British seasonal ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Giftree London
0.5 km
Discover London's soul in souvenirs, crafts, and conveniences at this Lambeth gem—unique gifts, luggage storage, and local flair await.
Sugar And Style
0.6 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Southbank Centre Shop, Mandela Walk
0.7 km
Discover creative gifts, sustainable homewares, and arts-inspired souvenirs on vibrant Mandela Walk, opposite Royal Festival Hall—a stylish treat amid South Bank's cultural heartbeat.
j-me original design ltd
0.7 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Gift Shop - London Eye Shop
0.7 km
Capture London's magic at the London Eye Gift Shop: exclusive souvenirs, Thames views, and iconic keepsakes from the wheel's base.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
0.7 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
0.7 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Custom Gifts By Jupiter
0.7 km
Unleash creativity with bespoke gifts and custom decor from this South Bank artisan haven near the Thames and iconic landmarks.
Browns of London
0.7 km
Explore Browns of London for unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures in the heart of the city, perfect for memorable souvenirs from your travels.
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.8 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
Gifts of London
1.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Gifts of London, your perfect shopping destination.
Jubilee Shop (Houses of Parliament Gift Shop)
1.1 km
Discover exclusive British political gifts and souvenirs inside the historic Westminster Hall at the Jubilee Shop, Houses of Parliament.
Houses of Parliament Shop
1.2 km
Discover parliamentary pride in souvenirs, books, and gifts at this cozy Bridge Street boutique, steps from Westminster's iconic halls.
The Store X
1.2 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Twinings - The Strand
1.3 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Waterloo Lost Property Office Speakeasy
0.4 km
Discover a hidden 1920s-inspired speakeasy in Waterloo serving expertly crafted cocktails in a seductive, vintage setting.
Bar @ 26 Leake Street
0.5 km
Experience London’s vibrant street art and nightlife culture at 26 Leake Street, a unique cocktail bar and event venue in Waterloo’s iconic graffiti tunnels.
Slug & Lettuce - County Hall
0.5 km
Chic South Bank cocktail haven in County Hall: bottomless brunches, 2-for-1 sips, pub classics, and Thames views for London's liveliest lunches and nights out.
Primo Bar, London
0.5 km
Sophisticated South Bank cocktails and live jazz with Big Ben views—Primo Bar blends daytime lounge ease with electrifying nightly performances in stylish 60s-inspired surrounds.
All Bar One Waterloo
0.6 km
Sophisticated South Bank bar serving creative cocktails, sharing plates, and wines in a lively spot near Waterloo Station and the London Eye.
honestfolk Cocktail Bar (Southbank Centre Food Market)
0.6 km
Seasonal cocktails and classics from a cozy mobile bar at Southbank Centre Food Market, where Thames breezes mingle with market buzz and craft libations.
The Understudy
0.7 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Le Champagne Bar
0.7 km
A compact riverside champagne lounge beside the London Eye—perfect for a celebratory flute and framed Thames views.
Southbank Centre, Members Bar
0.7 km
Elevated wine bar with Thames panoramas and cultured calm atop Royal Festival Hall—perfect for drinks amid London's arts heartbeat.
Lyaness
0.7 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
The Thirsty Farrier Cocktail Bar
0.7 km
A vibrant London cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks with scenic riverside views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.8 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
The Red Lion, Parliament Street
1.1 km
A venerable Westminster corner pub — late‑Victorian fittings, political atmosphere and a long history beside Downing Street and Parliament.
Gordon's Wine Bar
1.2 km
Step into London's oldest wine bar, where history, candlelight, and award-winning wines create an unforgettable cellar experience.
American Bar
1.2 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
